Gift Guides

We know we’re probably not supposed to say this, being an online store that sells really cool stuff and all, but holiday shopping isn’t always entirely fun. Sometimes it’s even stressful. Maybe you planned to get out there on Black Friday, but then spent the day recovering from too much stuffing and cranberry sauce instead. Or maybe you did get a head start on the shopping, but just realized that you still have a few people on your list, and of course they’re impossible to shop for. Now the Christmas clock is ticking. But that doesn’t mean those last minute gifts won’t be thoughtful. We’re here to help with this list of gifts so cool your giftees will wonder where you’ve been hiding them for months. (Don’t worry, the secret’s safe with us.)

As a frequent maker of soups, I’m very interested in anything that can make my soups more delicious or the process of making them easier. Thus, the Soup Pot Flavor Infuser was immediately intriguing to me. I’ve used bouquet garni in the past, and I’ve wrapped herbs in cheese cloth, but this item seemed like a more sustainable way to add flavor to my soup, and also get rid of the problem of having to locate something and fish it out of the finished pot. Additionally, I thought perhaps I could save some of the time I usually spend stripping fresh herbs off their stem and finely chopping them by just putting entire stems into the infuser and not worrying about accidentally taking a bite of something decidedly un-tasty.

Speaking of herbs, anyone who uses fresh herbs regularly knows the pain of buying a bundle of gorgeous fresh herbs only to find that there’s no possible way to use them all before they get brown and sad and suited only for the compost bin. I’ve been eagerly anticipating trying out our Stainless Steel Produce Keeper to see if I can start making the most of my thyme (see what I did there?)

We all have a friend whose Instagram is basically a travel agency advertisement. They’ve mastered the art of functioning while jet-lagged, can pack a weekend bag in five minutes flat, and truly embody a “buy the ticket, take the ride” lifestyle. If you’re stuck on what to gift the illustrious wanderluster (yes, we made up a word) in your life, we’ve picked out some goods that we know globetrotters will love. We guarantee they’ll want to pack you in their suitcase for their next trip if you get ’em these.

The labels “geek” and “nerd” are insults no more. In fact, they’re badges of honor. These days, “You are such a nerd,” is a compliment to math lovers who spend hours on calculations and science fans who’d rather spend a night stargazing than doing almost anything else. As proud nerds ourselves, we are extra excited to present this round-up of great gift ideas for folks who aren’t afraid to let their geek flags fly.

They were into reclaimed wood before it was cool. They can cruise through the Craigslist “free” page and wind up with a charming vintage coffee table that would probably cost thousands brand new. Stepping foot into their not-trying-too-hard-yet-still-dripping-with-effortless-style apartment strikes visitors with envy. It’s hard having a dream home decorator for a friend, whether they do it for a living or it’s just the way they live. Don’t fret, though – we’ve put together a guide of some of our choicest home design finds so you can give them a gift worthy of their already carefully curated collection.

Wherever you go, you’re likely to encounter some kind of sports enthusiast, whether it’s soccer groupies, football fans, or members of NASCAR nation. Yet, this varied demographic tends to be very misunderstood. When you’re only at the Superbowl party for the game time food, it’s easy to wave off the cheers and groans and think to yourself “calm down, it’s just a game!” But then you decide to tag along to your first live game and you start to understand the rush of being surrounded by 90,000 people in a stadium. As you witness the intense bond between fans and observe the deep rivalry between the teams, you realize that it’s not just a game, but a way of life. At the core, sports inspire dedicated players and amaze loyal fans alike. We know that the sports fan on your wish list lives for this adrenaline. We picked out a lineup of gifts that will remind him or her of that favorite pastime and feel that familiar rush all over again.

Research

Some say it tastes like Christmas, but I say it’s more like pure class in a glass. Scientists think liking it might mean you have a dark personality (I also drink my coffee black – uh oh), but I think you’re crazy if you hate it. It’s the gin & tonic, people, and I’m a fan. And so, when I saw the Gin & Tonic Making Kit in our assortment, I knew I had to try it out for my next gift lab.

We all know someone who spreads holiday cheer like it’s her job. She starts her search for gifts in July, she’ll stay up all night trying to make that DIY centerpiece she found online just right, and she’s always willing expand her guest list, even if it means squeezing a party of 20 into her eensy apartment. Such a commitment to holiday jolliness can take a toll – it’s stressful to be such a goddess of good tidings. Keep her spirits up and show your appreciation with this list of relaxing gifts.

The Goods is more than a place to see our products. We’re here to tell the stories behind and beyond what we sell. When you visit our blog, you’ll meet artists, discover uncommon knowledge, immerse yourself in creative design, and get to know the people who keep UncommonGoods going strong.